An Angler Typology Based on Angler Fishing Preferences

Abstract

The purpose of our study was to identify distinct types of anglers with different preferences for fishing opportunities, focusing on anglers in New York State. The sample of anglers who responded to a large statewide survey was randomly assigned to two subsamples (N1 = 1,769 and N2 = 1,784) to allow for cross validation of the cluster analysis used to determine angler types. Using a scale that measured basic fishing preferences such as desire for catch, skill development, and fish consumption, we identified seven types of anglers. These types were further described and validated by means of a more specific fishing-preferences scale measuring variables such as the type of water, tackle, fishing methods, and sites preferred. Angler types ranged from the largest groups, namely, skilled, coldwater, fish consumers (24%) and low-skilled, warmwater, fish consumers (17%), to the smallest group, namely, skilled, coldwater, stream anglers (6%). In general, we found that anglers were fishing in the areas they described as preferred and for the species they preferred. Further research is needed with both the preference scales and the cluster analysis to validate our results in other states or regions of the country. Because of the cross validation of our results, however, we feel confident of the angler typology for New York State.